What is this medicine?

MESALAMINE (me SAL a meen) is used to treat the pain and inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

kidney disease

pyloric stenosis

an unusual or allergic reaction to mesalamine, salicylates, other medicines, sulfites, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Shake well before using. Lie on your left side, extend the left leg and pull the right leg up towards your chest or pull both knees toward the chest. Take off the applicator tip cover and place the applicator tip gently into the rectum. Pointing the tip toward your stomach, squeeze the bottle steadily. Stay in position for at least 30 minutes to allow the medication to spread inside. For best results, use this medicine before bedtime and after you have had a bowel movement. Try keeping the suspension in the rectum for 8 hours. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. There is usually an improvement in 3 to 21 days. You may need about 6 weeks of treatment to get good results.

This medicine may stain clothing and other fabrics, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, plastics, and enamel.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

black, tarry stools

bloody diarrhea

breathing problems

chest pain

fever

nausea, vomiting

pain or trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

unusually weak or tired

yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

headache

rectal discomfort

stomach gas

stomach pain or cramps

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Once the foil-wrapped unit of seven bottles is opened, all enemas should be used within a short period of time. The suspension may darken after opening foil pouch. Slight darkening is okay; however, throw away enemas with dark brown contents. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children,
never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.